Aji Salsa

Colombian households have their own favorite version of this salsa, which gives the soup a bright burst of flavor. In lieu of hot pepper sauce, you can use 4 red chili peppers, finely chopped. Adjust the spiciness to your family’s preferences. You can chop ingredients using a knife or throw everything into a food processor.

2 bunches cilantro (about 1½ cups), finely chopped

6 scallions, white parts only, finely chopped

½ teaspoon hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco) or to taste

6 plum tomatoes, seeded and finely diced

1 cup water

Salt

In a medium bowl, combine the cilantro, scallions, hot pepper sauce or chili peppers, tomatoes, water and salt to taste. The mixture should taste like a salsa but with a more liquid consistency. If not using right away, cover and refrigerate.